The 6th of September 1965 is a day in our history that can never be forgotten. It was a day when the Pakistani nation not only defended the motherland, but also gave a clear and unambiguous message to the world that Pakistan is fully capable of defeating all aggression, no matter how stark, no matter how cowardly.

Defence Day reminds us of those historic moments when the enemy attacked us in the darkness of the night to capture Lahore. The whole world saw that the valiant soldiers of Pakistan’s Armed Forces repulsed the enemy with unsurpassed valour. Our soldiers proved with their supreme sacrifice that nations win wars not with armory, but with faith and courage.

By the grace of Almighty Allah, today’s Pakistan is much stronger, and its defence is impregnable. Today, we are a nuclear power and our military is even more vigilant and better equipped. The entire nation is inspired by patriotism; and our new generation is more enthused than ever. The Citizens stand shoulder to shoulder with the Armed Forces. Our enemies know that Pakistan’s defence is unassailable; any misadventure would certainly result in their humiliating defeat.

This is a day for us to demonstrate the national solidarity of 1965. We can only defeat our enemies through strict adherence to the cardinal principles of unity, faith and discipline as laid down by the Father of the Nation. We cannot be divided in the name of religion, cast or creed. With the help of Almighty Allah, Pakistan is on the path of accelerated development and we are being viewed as an emerging economy by the global Economic community. Pakistan’s military has been victorious in the war against terror and has proved its professional excellence. Operations Zarb-e-Azab, Radd-ul-Fassad and Khyber-4 have broken the backbone of terrorists. It is essential that we maintain unity and reaffirm our resolve to work for a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan.

On this occasion, I would also like to pay tribute to the great sacrifices of the unarmed innocent people of Indian Occupied Kashmir who have been fighting for their right to self-determination. Our position on Kashmir is very clear. This issue can only be resolved through United Nations’ Resolutions and according to the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Use of force and violence cannot suppress the voice of the Kashmiris, who are struggling for their inalienable right to self-determination. Pakistan will continue to provide moral, political and diplomatic support to the people of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir for their legitimate right at every forum.

Lt us pay tribute to the great sacrifices of our soldiers and martyrs, and all those who fought for the defence of Pakistan; and let us reaffirm our resolve to protect and preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our motherland at all costs.